How do pensions work if you’re a sole trader?
Starting a pension to save for your retirement is fairly easy to do. Here’s what you need to know about setting up a pension in 2026/27 as a sole trader.
Pensions
When you’re self-employed, nobody else is paying into a workplace pension on your behalf.
You can still build retirement savings through a personal pension or SIPP and receive tax relief on eligible contributions.
These guides explain how pensions work for sole traders, how much you might need to save, the tax rules and how self-employment affects your State Pension.
Start with these guides
Planning your retirement
State Pension for the self-employed: National Insurance and qualifying years
How the State Pension works if you’re self-employed, including NI rates, qualifying years, how to fill gaps, and why you may need extra retirement savings.
A simple guide to SIPPs for the self-employed
A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) is a popular way of saving for retirement for the self employed. Read our simple summary to find out more.
How pension tax relief works for the self-employed
Learn how pension tax relief works for sole traders. Understand allowances, limits and how self-employed pensions differ from limited company directors.
Should you pay into a pension or an ISA if you’re self-employed?
Pension or ISA if you’re self-employed – which is best? Compare tax relief, access rules and allowances, plus how SIPPs and ISAs can work together.
How much do you need to save for retirement if you’re self-employed?
How much should self-employed people save for retirement? See typical retirement costs and how much you may need to contribute.
Pension auto enrolment: does it apply to sole traders and limited companies?
Automatic enrolment is the UK’s mandatory workplace pension system. Find out why sole traders (without employees) and many small companies are exempt.
New report urges ‘nudge’ reforms to boost self-employed pensions
Social Market Foundation warns just 22% of self-employed save into a pension. New report calls for ‘nudges’ from banks and HMRC to boost retirement savings.
Pensions Commission relaunched as millions of self-employed fall behind
The Government has revived the Pensions Commission to tackle a looming retirement crisis, with self-employed workers among the worst affected.
It’s never too late to start saving for a pension if you’re self-employed
Left it late to start a pension? If you’re self-employed, here’s how to catch up, claim tax relief, and build a pot from scratch.